Hackers made headlines today after uncovering one of the biggest security flaws in the history of smartphones, CNN Money reports. An estimated 950 million Android phones users were affected worldwide.
The problem is in how the operating system analyzes incoming text messages. Upon entry, Android phones automatically comb through media files. These include photos, audio and video clips. This means that corrupt files can start infecting phones as soon as they're received — they don't even have to be opened. Apple also had a text hack recently. For iPhone users, a text with the right number of characters could freeze the phone or force it to restart. But in Android's case, a hacker could take complete control of the phone, wiping it, accessing apps or overtly turning on the camera.
CNN Money reports that the flaw affects any phone using Android software made in the last five years. Google says it has ways to limit a hacker's access, but the giant firm isn't offering specifics.
